by Margaret Henderson
In North Dakota, all of the state has been classified as Zone One, the EPA designation for areas in which it is anticipated that radon levels will exceed 4pCi/L, the recommended action level. Of the homes tested in an initial survey of approximately 1600 homes, 63% of the homes had radon levels in excess of 4 pCi/L. The mean value was 7.0 pCi/L. The North Dakota Department of Environment and Natural Resources recommends testing all homes. Through its website and a series of helpful videos, the department focuses on radon reduction techniques. The videos provide overview and in depth education about radon and mitigation.
The video series includes these selections:
- Beginning with a three-minute video on “Understanding Radon Mitigation,” basic information is provided along with encouragement that “radon is fixable.”
- “Radon Mitigation Overview” is a ten-minute feature on the basic “how-to” information about mitigation.
- In longer videos, more detailed information is provided. “Protecting Your Home from Radon” is a do-it-yourself mitigation classroom video of approximately two hours in duration. This video is a recording of an actual group attending the training that teaches how to assess and reduce exposure to radon.
- The last in the series is approximately a one and on-half hour discussion and demonstration of radon mitigation supplies.
With the series of videos, the homeowner is able to perform mitigations. Additionally, the department provides a listing of certified measurement and mitigation professionals for persons who wish to hire specialists.
To see the videos, visit http://www.ndhealth.gov/AQ/IAQ/RADON/. For more information about radon in North Dakota, contact the Radon Program at:
Telephone: 701-328-5188
United States